Reasons to visit Toronto in 2024

Toronto skyline at night

Toronto is a vibrant metropolis nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario and one of the most exciting cities to visit on holiday. With its dynamic energy and endless possibilities, you will be spoiled for things to see and do in Toronto. One of Canada’s most iconic cities, Toronto blends modernity with a rich cultural heritage. If you are looking for your next holiday destination, read on to discover some of the many reasons why Toronto should be at the top of your travel wish list for 2024.

Culture

Immersing yourself in Toronto’s unique culture is part of the visitor experience. Toronto has an incredibly diverse cultural tapestry, where traditions from around the world converge. This makes visiting on a holiday a truly wonderful experience.

For example, there is the historic Distillery District, which is brimming with Victorian-era charm and artisanal boutiques. Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is the perfect cultural activity, showcasing world-class exhibitions spanning art, history, and natural sciences.

Toronto is a cultural mecca like no other. Katie, from the travel blog The World On My Necklace, shares with us: “Toronto is the vibrant, multicultural heartbeat of Canada. It is the only big city in Canada that feels like a big city on a world scale, and the energy is palatable. But you can still find quiet pockets of nature at the beaches and islands of Toronto. Toronto shouldn’t be missed when visiting Canada.”

Attractions

CN Tower viewed from the Toronto Island

Toronto boasts an array of must-visit attractions that perfectly capture what the city is all about. One attraction that will be on everyone’s to-do list is the architectural marvel known as the CN Tower. This emblem of Toronto’s skyline is synonymous with the city, offering brilliant panoramic views, an award-winning restaurant, and the opportunity to walk along the outside of the tower via a harness.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a Toronto attraction the whole family will fall in love with, home to over 20,000 aquatic animals. To escape the urban bustle, you can also decide to explore the beautiful Toronto Islands – a park within Lake Ontario that is just a 13-minute ferry ride from downtown Toronto.

Entertainment

Toronto is also the city to be in for a range of top entertainment that just never stops, especially if you are a fan of live performances. From West End-calibre productions to indie theatre gems, Toronto’s captivating entertainment scene boasts great variety. You could catch a performance at the renowned Princess of Wales Theatre or even immerse yourself in the vibrant street art culture of Kensington Market.

If you want to experience some top sport during your stay, you are spoilt for choice. Ice Hockey is one of Canada’s major sports, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the top teams in the NHL. The city is also home to the Toronto Blue Jays, a professional MLB baseball team. Or if you think you’d prefer to watch a game of basketball, you could watch the NBA’s Toronto Raptors.

Food Scene

St Lawrence Market in Toronto

Thanks to its global appeal and multi-cultural milieu, Toronto is home to one of the best food scenes in the world. With dishes and restaurants representing some of the planet’s richest culinary treasures, visitors to Toronto can treat themselves when it comes to meals in the city. So, prepare yourself for a dining experience where tasty delights await at every turn.

Visitors should certainly take time to indulge in the multicultural flavours of Kensington Market, savouring global cuisines from Lebanese falafel to Korean barbecue. For a taste of local Toronto food, you will do well to wander through St. Lawrence Market, sampling artisanal cheeses, freshly baked pastries, and farm-fresh produce that embody Toronto’s culinary heritage.

Toronto’s food scene is the best reason to visit Toronto, according to Kevin from the travel blog Wandering Wagars. Speaking to us, he shared:

“Toronto is one of the world’s most diverse cities. There are more than 250 ethnicities and more than 160 languages spoken throughout the Greater Toronto Area. All of those cultures mean that Toronto has one of the most varied and incredible ethnic food cultures on the planet. Take a walk down Queen Street in the city’s downtown core, and within two blocks, you’ll have your choice of Greek, Somalian, Lebanese, Pakistani, French, and Chinese.

“Toronto is a city where you can, quite literally, dine around the world over the period of a weekend, and there is no better way to experience it than through one of Toronto’s many food tours. Explore the markets and restaurants of Kensington Market, the bustling streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown, the cobblestone-lined gourmet shops in the Distillery District, or stroll Yonge Street, stopping at the countless food trucks dotting the sidewalk.”

Nightlife

While there is plenty going on during the day, you will also want to experience Toronto after dark as the city comes alive in new and exciting ways. Whether you are looking for a place to eat, a quiet drink, or a lively night of music and dancing, Toronto has you covered.

From trendy rooftop bars offering panoramic skyline views to underground speakeasies tucked away in hidden alleys, Toronto’s nightlife scene offers something for every visitor. For example, you could opt to dance the night away to live music at iconic venues like The Drake Hotel or discover the city’s craft cocktail scene in the hip neighbourhoods of Queen West and Ossington.

Shopping

Eaton Centre in Toronto

Toronto is a great place to indulge in a little retail therapy. The city boasts diverse shopping districts, where designer boutiques, vintage shops, and artisanal markets await. You should definitely explore the bustling Eaton Centre. This is North America’s busiest shopping mall, a place where you will find all the biggest names, brands, and outlets.

If you would prefer to discover one-of-a-kind treasures, then the eclectic shops of Queen Street West are right for you. From luxury brands to independent artisans, Toronto offers a shopping experience that’s as unique as the city itself.

Krista, from the travel blog Krista the Explorer, recommends visiting Toronto’s Old Town, for shopping as well as the history. Speaking to us, she said: “There are a lot of reasons people choose to visit Toronto, and although it’s a modern city, there’s a lot of interesting history behind it too.

“Old Town Toronto is one of the best places to visit in the city and offers visitors a glimpse into when Toronto was starting to develop. This area is great for some retail therapy, but there are also plenty of places to eat, coffee shops to relax in, and quaint streets to explore. The Distillery District is a must-visit, especially in the summertime when people are enjoying themselves outdoors in the hot weather.”

Events & Festivals

You will also have the chance to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Toronto at its many festivals and events. Throughout 2024, there are occasions showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic arts scene. One of the biggest dates on the calendar is the Toronto International Film Festival, which is among the most prestigious film festivals in the world.

Or how about immersing yourself in the multicultural celebrations of events like Caribana? Otherwise known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, the occasion celebrates Caribbean culture and traditions each summer. You could consider visiting the Distillery Winter Village, the perfect event for a festive, winter experience, where you can pick up gifts and enjoy some tasty snacks while exploring the Distillery District. There is also a range of more niche events celebrating everything from food and wine to literature and music. There’s always something exciting happening in the city.

Day Trips from Toronto

Niagara Falls in Canada

Toronto can be just the start of your Canada adventure. If you desire, there are endless opportunities to venture beyond the city and discover nearby natural wonders and cultural gems. For example, flights to Toronto will land you at the most convenient location for a once-in-a-lifetime visit to the iconic Niagara Falls. Visiting this incredible natural attraction is a must during your time in the city.

With a Toronto car hire, you can embark on a scenic drive to the Falls, which takes about an hour and a half, and experience one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. You can also experience the thrill of Niagara Parks’ year-round attractions, from tunnels beneath the falls to an unforgettable ride on the historic Whirlpool Aero Car. Another top-day trip takes you to the picturesque vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake – perfect for some wine tasting. Or you could discover the historic charm of the Thousand Islands region, offering a unique glimpse into Ontario‘s diverse landscapes.

Why you should visit Toronto on holiday

– Culture

– Attractions

– Entertainment

– Food Scene

– Nightlife

– Shopping

– Events & Festivals

– Day Trips from Toronto

Toronto is certainly one of the best places to visit in Canada. Whether exploring historic landmarks, indulging in world-class cuisine, or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant nightlife, Toronto offers something for everyone. Embark on your Toronto adventure today and discover why this dynamic city captures the hearts of visitors year after year.

Ready to experience the magic of Toronto for yourself? Explore our range of Toronto holidays or get in touch so we can tailor-make your dream trip.